The Indiana University (IU) basketball team overcame a sluggish start to overwhelm Eastern Illinois University (EIU) in the second half, cruising to a 90-55 victory at Assembly Hall on Sunday afternoon. The No. 18 Hoosiers used a dominant 22-2 run to seize control of the game and never looked back, showcasing their size and depth against the overmatched Panthers.

Hoosiers Flex Their Muscles in Decisive Second-Half Surge

Ballo and Reneau Dominate the Paint

The Hoosiers' significant size advantage was on full display, as center Oumar Ballo and forward Malik Reneau combined for 34 points and 15 rebounds in the paint. Ballo, a 7-foot transfer from Gonzaga, scored 17 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, while Reneau, a highly touted freshman, added 17 points and 6 boards. Their physical presence and ability to score in the low post proved too much for the smaller EIU frontcourt, setting the tone for Indiana's second-half onslaught.

Mgbako Shines Again, Freshman Carlyle Impresses

Sophomore forward Mackenzie Mgbako, who scored a career-high 31 points in the season opener, continued his strong start with 18 points and 4 assists against EIU. The Hoosiers' talented newcomer, freshman guard Kanaan Carlyle, also showed flashes of his potential, despite struggling with his shot early on. Carlyle's first points of the season didn't come until the final five minutes, but his energy and playmaking ability off the bench provided a spark for the Hoosiers.

Galloway's Sixth-Man Role Pays Dividends

Veteran guard Trey Galloway has embraced his role as the team's sixth man, and his impact was evident once again. Galloway dished out a team-high 8 assists and brought a contagious energy to the floor, helping to settle the Hoosiers down whenever they needed a steadying presence. Head coach Mike Woodson has yet to indicate whether Galloway will return to the starting lineup, but the junior's ability to provide a spark off the bench has been invaluable for Indiana.

Offensive Identity Still a Work in Progress

While the Hoosiers were able to dominate the paint and cruise to a comfortable victory, their offensive identity remains a work in progress. Guards Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle, in particular, have struggled to find their rhythm and assertiveness within the offense, often appearing hesitant and uncertain. As Indiana prepares for tougher competition in the upcoming Battle 4 Atlantis tournament, Woodson and his staff will need to continue refining the team's offensive execution and decision-making.

Hoosiers Flex Their Defensive Muscle

One of the most impressive aspects of Indiana's performance was their stifling defense in the second half. The Hoosiers held EIU without a field goal for over seven minutes, limiting the Panthers to just 16.7% shooting (5 of 30) in the final 20 minutes. This defensive intensity and ability to take control of the game on that end of the floor will be crucial as the Hoosiers face stiffer competition in the weeks ahead.